Apple is believed to be planning to release a mini iPad that could be on shop shelves in time for Christmas.

Details of a seven-inch version of the iPad have been reported in a Chinese newspaper that correctly predicted the specifications of the iPad months before anyone else.

The Economic Daily News claims Taiwanese companies have won several contracts to make components smaller than those used on the current 9.7-inch iPads.

“Chimei Innolux will supply seven-inch LCD screens, which use the same IPS (in-plane switching) technology found in the original iPad, which improves viewing angles and colour on LCD screens,” the newspaper reported.

“Touchscreen technology for the screens will come from Cando Corporation.”

Apple intend to launch the smaller iPad this December in time for the Christmas shopping season, according to Economic Daily News sources.

Geek.com blogger Christian Zibreg said, if the so-called iPad mini becomes the iPad nano of tablets, Apple might have a huge hit on their hands.

The rumoured new version is predicted to be 200g lighter than the standard iPad.

That model sold three million units in the 80 days following its release in April this year.

Source: Sky News